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The Great Wall of China is one of the greatest wonders of the world and was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987. The wall stretches from east to west for approximately 6,700 kilometres (4,163 miles), including a section to the north-west of Beijing. With a history of more than 2000 years, some of the sections of the great wall are now in ruins or even entirely disappeared. However, it is still one of the most appealing attractions all around the world owing to its architectural grandeur and historical significance.
Please note, participants will need to have a reasonable level of fitness as some of the sections are steep and have high steps.
The spectacular Temple of Heaven complex is set in the middle of parkland in central Beijing and is a masterpiece of Ming and Qing architectural art. The Emperors of the two dynasties worshipped here from 1420. The complex comprises several important buildings including the Halls of Heaven and Abstinence and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. In 1998, the Temple of Heaven was recognised by UNESCO as 'one of the human heritages of the world.'
The Palace Museum, or The Forbidden City as it is sometimes known, is in the heart of modern Beijing and is the most complete historical site in all of China. The Forbidden City was the nucleus of the Chinese empire for nearly five centuries and occupied by the Ming Rulers from 1421. Its massive courtyards were regularly filled with processions and the city is divided into two main areas – the southern area comprising three large halls, where the Ming and Qing emperors held state ceremonies and the residential northern section consisting of three large palaces and the Imperial Gardens.
Photos taken from star5112, d'n'c and Nagyman on Flickr.com